Use of a lectin or conjugates for modulation of c-fibre activity

Abstract

The present invention relates to the treatment of pain and to compounds that modulate C-fibre activity. In particular, the present invention relates to the use of a lectin in the manufacture of a medicament for modulation of C-fibre neuron activity, and to lectin conjugates. The lectin conjugates comprise a lectin coupled to a peptide or protein, wherein the peptide or protein is substantially free of Clostridial neurotoxin enzyme activity. The present invention also concerns methods for manufacturing conjugates. The compounds and compositions described have particular application in the treatment of diseases of which C-fibre activity is a component. Such diseases include pain, inflamation, psoriasis and other C-fibre related conditions.

1. A method of treating pain resulting from C-fibre neuron activity, comprising administering to a patient a lectin in an amount effective to inhibit C-fibre neuron activity, wherein the lectin is an  Erythrina cristagalli  lectin. 
     
     
       2. A method of treating pain resulting from C-fibre neuron activity, comprising administering to a patient a lectin in an amount effective to inhibit C-fibre neuron activity, wherein the lectin is  Bandeiraea simplicifolia  lectin IB 4 . 
     
     
       3. A method of treating pain resulting from C-fibre neuron activity, comprising administering to a patient a lectin in an amount effective to inhibit C-fibre neuron activity, wherein the lectin is  Triticum vulgaris  wheat germ agglutinin lectin (WGA). 
     
     
       4. A method of treating inflammation resulting from C-fibre neuron activity, comprising administering to a patient a lectin in an amount effective to inhibit C-fibre neuron activity, wherein the lectin is an  Erythrina cristagalli  lectin.